National Stamp Collecting Month

National Stamp Collecting Month is celebrated every October and is dedicated to one of the world’s most popular hobbies—stamp collecting. Stamps are often passed down from generation to generation, with rare specimens highly sought after and carefully preserved in albums. With over 5 million philatelists in America alone, it’s no surprise this holiday has been celebrated since its founding in 1981 by the Council of Philatelic Organizations and the United States Postal Service. Each year, new and interesting stamps are issued to inspire collectors, and many organizations host special programs to support and grow this timeless hobby.

History

The first postage stamps appeared in 1837, invented to pay for mail delivery. Since then, stamp collecting has flourished, with stamps becoming brighter and more colorful over time. Today, the world of philately continues to evolve, introducing exciting new developments and themes.

Interesting Facts

• To make stamp adhesive, a mixture of gum, dextrin, and glucose was used. Producing 400,000 stamps required about 16 kg of this substance.
• In most countries, the majority of stamps are issued specifically for collectors rather than everyday use.
• In the early 20th century, some U.S. stamps featured meteorological information, allowing recipients to learn about changing weather conditions through their mail.

How to Take Part

If you’re a philatelist, this is the perfect time to add a significant stamp to your collection and display it proudly in your album. New hobbyists can start their own collections by gathering essential supplies. Exchange stamps with fellow collectors, attend auctions, and share your discoveries on social media using the #StampCollectingMonth hashtag.

When is National Stamp Collecting Month in 2025?

National Stamp Collecting Month is observed throughout October each year.

Observations